Charlie McConalogue (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail)

Unfortunately, the events in the report by HIQA into Gleann Álainn are not isolated. The report is consistent with other HIQA reports into the State's other two special care units. Just last week, HIQA published the report on Gleann Álainn finding it in a state of crisis. HIQA declared Ballydowd special care unit unfit for purpose in 2009. The HSE committed to closing it down, yet it remains open due to the increase in the number of children requiring access to special care units over the past year. HIQA found that Coovagh House in Limerick was in a state of crisis. What is the position in the State's special care units? The position is stark and, unfortunately, is a very poor reflection on how the State is dealing with vulnerable children. The record has not been good.

As a result of the passage of the Child Care (Amendment) Bill earlier this year, it is likely that pressures on the special care units and the number of people needing to access them will increase. Has there been an assessment by the Department of the likely increase in numbers? While I totally understand the need to be able to move on to high support units, I believe there will always be, unfortunately, a requirement for strong special care units and an effective service. Does the Minister intend to continue sending children abroad to gain access to special care units and services? How many children will be in this category in the coming year? It is not acceptable.

See this speech in context